Is Thailand Ready For Legalized Gambling?

Topping Thailand’s economic news are comments by the Prime Minister that he is willing to consider opening up gambling, according to the Bangkok Post.

With the Thai economy struggling at funding an economic recovery process that has been under extreme duress by Covid-19, the question now will the pandemic be an accelerator of a long-lasting national debate over legalizing gambling?

The news also states that the government is currently soliciting public opinion on the subject, while at the same time is embroiled in issues over illegal gambling, money laundering, and health and safety issues with Covid-19 illegitimate gatherings for gaming activities.

Certainly, the country could use much-needed tax revenue to fund infrastructure, social welfare, and economic stimulus. While the nation’s tourism industry already has the capacity to house casinos and an infrastructure that can easily fast-track a new, and much-needed visitor segment.

With Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines, Cambodia, and even Japan now embracing legalized gaming, should Thailand now change course? The conversation is coming into the mainstream, so stay tuned.